Missing Boater Located In William Henry Bay

photo US Coast Guard

Coast Guard locates overdue mariner in William Henry Bay, Alaska

JUNEAU, Alaska — The crew of the Coast Guard Cutter Liberty located an overdue mariner taking shelter in William Henry Bay, northwest of Juneau Wednesday evening.

Tony "Scott" Pearce and his sailing vessel were found in good condition, well stocked with food, water and emergency supplies. Pearce plans to wait out foul weather conditions and continue his voyage to Juneau Thursday morning.

Sector Juneau watchstanders received a report Wednesday afternoon that the vessel did not make it to Juneau Monday as was intended.  Pearce, a Haines resident, reportedly departed Haines Sunday morning alone aboard the white and teal trimmed 25-foot sailing vessel Darshan with the intention of arriving in Juneau Monday for the Juneau Folk Festival.

Sector Juneau watchstanders issued an urgent marine information broadcast requesting the assistance of mariners in the area and directed the launch of multiple Coast Guard assets.

“Cases such as this illustrate the importance of having a solid plan and being well equipped with rations and emergency supplies,” said Lt. Ryan Erickson a search and rescue controller with Coast Guard Sector Juneau. “The Coast Guard would also like to remind mariners the importance of a float plan and keeping family and friends informed of your intentions.”

The weather in the area is currently 39-mph winds, 2 to 4-foot seas and periods of heavy snow showers throughout the area.